How effective is antenatal care in preparing mothers for newborn care? An exploratory survey of lactating women in a rural Nigerian district.

The prevailing antenatal care services are ineffective in preparing mothers for newborn care. Place and frequency of ANC have positive associations with umbilical cord care. There is a need to implement quality ANC that will enhance maternal and neonatal outcomes and implement innovative interventions to enhance ANC attendance. The WHO positive pregnancy experience model should be implemented.